Creamy Corn Chowder Recipe

When you’re in need of a warm, comforting dish that’s both rich and satisfying, this Creamy Corn Chowder with beef Bacon Recipe is the perfect choice. This hearty chowder combines the sweetness of corn with the creaminess of potatoes, all elevated by the smoky flavor of crispy beef bacon. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a starter, this chowder is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Corn Chowder with beef Bacon is everything you want in a comfort food—rich, hearty, and full of flavor. The creamy broth, made with a combination of chicken broth and heavy cream, perfectly complements the sweetness of the corn and the earthiness of the potatoes. The addition of crispy beef bacon adds a delicious smoky depth that takes this chowder to the next level. Plus, it’s easy to make and comes together in under an hour, making it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this Creamy Corn Chowder with beef Bacon so delicious:

• beef Bacon (4 strips): Provides a smoky, savory flavor that enhances the richness of the chowder. Cooking the beef bacon slowly allows it to render its fat, which is used to sauté the vegetables and add depth to the soup.
• Onion (½ medium, chopped small): Adds sweetness and a slight bite, forming a flavorful base for the chowder.
• Celery (3 sticks, chopped small): Contributes a mild, earthy flavor and a bit of crunch.
• Carrots (2 medium, peeled and chopped small): Adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the chowder.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the soup with a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• Flour (¼ cup): Helps thicken the chowder, giving it a rich, creamy consistency.
• Chicken Broth or Stock (4 cups): Forms the savory liquid base of the chowder, providing depth and flavor. You can use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
• Heavy/Whipping Cream (1 cup): Adds a luxurious creaminess to the chowder, making it rich and satisfying.
• Corn (4 cups, frozen or fresh): The star ingredient, corn adds natural sweetness and texture. Fresh corn will add a pop of flavor, but frozen corn works just as well.
• Russet Potatoes (2 large, peeled and diced): Provide a hearty texture and help thicken the chowder as they cook.
• Italian Seasoning (¼ teaspoon): Adds a blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
• Cayenne Pepper (1 pinch, optional): Adds a subtle heat that balances the sweetness of the corn. Adjust to taste or omit if you prefer a milder chowder.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, for seasoning the chowder and bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients.

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the beef Bacon:
Start by prepping your beef bacon—using kitchen shears makes it easy to cut into small pieces. In a large pot, cook the beef bacon over medium-high heat until it’s crispy, about 10 minutes. Once cooked, remove the beef bacon from the pot and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave about 2 tablespoons of beef bacon fat in the pot to sauté the vegetables.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots to the pot with the beef bacon fat. Sauté the vegetables over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until they begin to soften. This step helps to build the base flavors of the chowder.

3. Add Garlic and Flour:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to combine. Cook the flour mixture for about a minute, stirring constantly, to remove the raw flour taste. This step also thickens the chowder.

4. Add the Broth and Cream:
Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to ensure the flour is fully dissolved and the brown bits at the bottom of the pot are scraped up—this adds even more flavor to the chowder. Next, stir in the heavy cream, which gives the chowder its creamy, rich texture.

5. Add Corn, Potatoes, and Seasonings:
Stir in the corn, diced potatoes, Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper (if using), and most of the cooked beef bacon (reserve some for garnishing). Increase the heat to high and bring the chowder to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a rapid simmer, cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

6. Final Seasoning and Serve:
Once the potatoes are tender and the chowder has thickened to your liking, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the chowder into bowls, garnish with the reserved beef bacon, and serve hot. This chowder is best enjoyed with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad.

Tips for Perfect Corn Chowder

• Preventing Over-Thickening: The chowder will naturally thicken as it cooks, but if it becomes too thick, simply add a bit more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
• Adjusting the Heat Level: If you like a bit of spice, feel free to increase the amount of cayenne pepper. Alternatively, you can add a dash of hot sauce when serving.
• Richer Chowder: For an even richer chowder, consider using half-and-half instead of cream, or adding a few tablespoons of butter along with the beef bacon fat.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Corn Chowder with beef Bacon is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways:

• Garnishes: Top each bowl with freshly chopped chives, parsley, or green onions for a burst of color and fresh flavor. A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese can also add a delicious, cheesy touch.
• Side Dishes: Serve the chowder with crusty bread, garlic bread, or cornbread to soak up the creamy broth. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs well with the richness of the chowder.
• Presentation Tips: Serve the chowder in deep bowls to keep it warm longer. For an extra touch, drizzle a bit of extra cream or a sprinkle of paprika over the top before serving.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To prepare this recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

• Large Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for evenly cooking the chowder and preventing the ingredients from sticking.
• Wooden Spoon: Useful for stirring the vegetables and soup as it cooks.
• Ladle: For serving the chowder into bowls.
• Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for chopping the vegetables and beef bacon.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Creamy Corn Chowder with beef Bacon is perfect for leftovers and stores well:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making the chowder even more delicious the next day.
• Freezing: While the chowder can be frozen, note that the texture of the potatoes and cream may change slightly upon reheating. If freezing, let the chowder cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat the chowder gently on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. If the chowder has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach the desired consistency.

Recipe Variations

This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs:

• Dairy-Free Option: Replace the cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. The chowder will still be creamy but with a slightly different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the beef bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to make the chowder hearty and filling.
• Alternative Proteins: Instead of beef bacon, try adding cooked beef sausage or shredded chicken for a different twist on the classic corn chowder.

FAQ

Can I use canned corn?
Yes, canned corn can be used in this recipe. Simply drain and rinse the corn before adding it to the chowder. However, fresh or frozen corn will provide a better texture and flavor.

How do I make this chowder thicker?
To make the chowder thicker, you can either add more flour when sautéing the vegetables or let the soup simmer uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot to release their starch.

Can I use different types of potatoes?
Yes, you can use other varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Keep in mind that different potatoes may have slightly different cooking times and textures.

Conclusion

This Creamy Corn Chowder with beef Bacon Recipe is a rich, hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, this chowder is sure to impress with its layers of flavor and comforting texture. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. If you enjoyed this recipe, subscribe to our blog for more delicious and comforting dishes!

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